Thought/Observations regarding NOS gasketsMany Honda dealers have a computer controlled machine that will make gaskets one at a time. The CA-CB-CL 72-77 program is available, and my local dealer has it. They use modern gasket material (no asbestos to worry about) in the proper thicknesses, with the bolt (and dowel pin) holes being properly sized and located for good fitment. Reasonably priced, too. For removing the hollow dowels, a properly sized thread extractor ( E-Z out ) usually works well, without distorting the dowel for re-use. Regards, Chase
Well, I guess I am certainly out of date when it comes to gaskets at dealers. I can see how the same technology used to make vinyl signs and decals can be applied to make gaskets, so it certainly makes sense that they would move in this direction. Saves a lot of money and space holding inventory. I suspect for a big dealer in a large metro area, it pays for itself in a year or so between no lost time waiting for out of stock gaskets and the carrying costs associated with hold inventory, not to mention the slow moving inventory. I will have to check with my local dealer. But he's pretty small and a bit of a bug. There is a bigger one in the next town over that might have this system. They are a multi-brand shop so one system could do all the various brands. If Honda does it, I would think the others do as well. Thanks for the info. regards, Rob
Hi,
I'm more worried about the quality of the after market parts then NOS Honda parts (except for tires). But I do use modern brake liner on the Honda brake shoes, and of course I use modern oils. Most after market gaskets have a bad fit, and when it comes to head gaskets I always use NOS parts. Jensen assembly of Japanese motorcycles requires great peace of mind (Pirsig)
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